NFL

New England Patriots vs. Minnesota Vikings – Preview

The New England Patriots are playing against the Minnesota Vikings at TFC Bank Stadium in their second game of the regular season on Sunday. Last week, the Patriots lost against the Miami Dolphins 33-20 in their initial regular season game. The Vikings faced the St. Louis Rams and defeated them with an end score of 34-6. The Patriots are starting the season with an 0-1 record, while the Vikings have gone 1-0 so far.

The key to a Patriots win on Sunday is fixing the numerous problems in their offensive line. Quarterback Tom Brady needs to increase his mobility if he wants to avoid being sacked and his receivers need to make sure they are in the right place and looking to catch the pass when it is thrown. Tight end Rob Gronkowski and receiver Aaron Dobson promise to be big factors in Sunday’s game.

If the Vikings defense can get in close enough to harass the Patriots’ quarterback consistently, they stand a good chance of winning the game. Last week, the Vikings defense was able to force five sacks and two interceptions in the game against the Rams. Quarterback Matt Cassel played for four years at New England, so he has intimate knowledge of both their offensive and defensive strengths.

On Sunday, the Patriots will be playing without DT Chris Jones and DE Michael Buchanan, who are both out with ankle injuries. LB James Morris has been put on injured reserve due to a knee injury.

The Vikings will be playing without linebackers Brandon Watts, Michael Mauti and Erin Henderson. Running back Zach Line is also out due to an ankle injury. Minnesota defensive lineman Sharrif Floyd, recovering from a shoulder injury, and cornerback Xavier Rhodes, recovering from a groin injury, are both questionable for the game on Sunday.

Latest Line – The Patriots are favored to win by 3.

With multiple injuries hampering both teams, the game will probably remain pretty close throughout, but the Patriots will ultimately end up with the win if their quarterback can complete his passes.